Goblet 1850 - 1870

This clear glass goblet was made by Bakewell, Pears and Company, active between 1836 and 1882. In the 19th century, glass production was transforming, shifting from small-scale artisan shops to large factories. This goblet reflects the industrialization of glassmaking, where technological advancements allowed for mass production. Yet, it also speaks to the desire for luxury goods that could mimic the intricate designs previously only achievable by hand. Consider the goblet in the context of social gatherings. Who was invited to the table? Whose labor produced the glass? What stories might be told, or silenced, over a drink served in such a vessel? This object embodies the complex relationship between progress, privilege, and the stories we choose to tell ourselves. It’s a reminder that even the simplest objects carry the weight of history and identity.